Forbes magazine lists the following reasons that everyone should travel solo at least once:
- Independence and Empowerment
- Confidence
- Self-Discovery
- Connections
- Freedom
For many years, cruise and tour companies would assess the dreaded single supplement to anyone wishing to book a single room or cabin. As solo travel has gained in popularity, however, several companies have taken steps to welcome and encourage single travelers. Cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Royal Caribbean and Cunard provide single cabins, or studios, on certain ships. Additionally, Azamara, Crystal, Silversea and UnCruise Adventures reduce the single supplement on select sailings. River cruises sail with less than 200 passengers and are an excellent way to get to know fellow passengers. Many river cruise lines also offer special interest cruises providing solo travelers an opportunity to sail with like-minded people. Uniworld, AmaWaterways, Emerald, Avalon and Tauck reduce or eliminate the single supplement. For those who prefer a land tour, Abercrombie and Kent and Tauck waive or discount the single supplement, and Cosmos provides a Guaranteed Share program. They will attempt to match you with another same-sex solo traveler and, if they are unable to, will waive the single supplement.
Studio cabins and solo travel space is limited on cruises, river cruises or tours, so it's best to book early. Your travel professional is your best resource for helping you book the perfect solo adventure.
This article is from Lauren Schultheiss a Forsyth County Georgia travel agency owner and Certified Autism Travel Professional, specializing in river and ocean cruises, family and multi-generational vacations, and special interest tours.